While reading the story of the feeding of the five thousand in Matthew 14, I was nudged by the lesson on faith. As the people were gathering and it came time for people to eat, the disciples petitioned to Jesus to let the people go home so that they can get food. Jesus tells them, "They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat." The disciples replied, "We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish." So Jesus told them, "Bring them here to me."
The rest is history I guess.
Jesus knew that if the disciples had faith in him, they could feed the five thousand without Jesus having to do it directly. I guess it would have made for a simpler story if when Jesus had told them to feed the crowd, had they turned around and started handing out the food, having faith that God would provide. Maybe the story would have ended the same, with baskets and baskets of leftover food. I also find it funny how even though the disciples did not have faith to feed the people, Jesus was determined to feed them anyways.
How many times has God told me to do something, or "You give them something to eat," for me to only reply that "I only have some bread and fish." It might seem impossible at the time, but instead of giving excuses, I should have faith in God, turn, and Go. At the same time, the story shows that God does not need me or anyone else for his plan. If I miss the opportunity, he will do it himself. The thing is, I don't want to miss the opportunity. Father, increase my faith and trust so that when you call I can turn and go. I don't want to miss an opportunity to be a part of your grand plan and miracles-Amen.
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